The Houston Texans’ 2023 draft class is heading into the final year of their rookie deals, and it’s a make-or-break season for a lot of these guys trying to earn a long-term spot. While C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson Jr. already locked down extensions, the rest of the class is fighting for their careers as the 2026 season looms.
From Elite Talent to Tough Cuts: The 2023 Class Story
Look, this draft class has been huge for the Texans, no doubt. Stroud, the second overall pick, got his fifth-year option, and Anderson Jr., the third overall pick, is locked in through 2030. These guys are the backbone of Houston’s push back into the AFC spotlight. The class overall has started 231 of 459 possible games, a wild 50.3% start rate, the best for any Texans class in a decade. But it wasn’t all sunshine and extensions. Second-rounder Juice Scruggs was a “massive bust” and got cut, just like seventh-rounder Brandon Hill.
Day Three Grinders Face the Grind Again
What really makes this class stand out are the Day Three guys who turned into legit contributors. Henry To’oTo’o, a fifth-round linebacker, is a starter and a great partner for Azeez Al-Shaair. Sixth-round receiver Xavier Hutchinson has proven he can be a capable rotational guy, blocking and contributing on special teams. But it’s not all easy for these guys. Jarrett Patterson, another sixth-round offensive lineman, started 21 games, one more than the infamous Juice Scruggs. He’s been the go-to “break glass” option on the O-line, but Houston went hard this offseason, trading for, re-signing, signing, and drafting interior offensive linemen. According to the latest Rosterology, Patterson is expected to miss the cut, which would be a huge letdown for a player who started five games last year.
Tank Dell’s Intriguing Road Ahead
Then there’s the most intriguing situation of all: wide receiver Tank Dell. This third-round pick had a dynamic and super promising rookie season, but it got cut short by injury. We all saw the flashes, right? Now, with his rookie deal ending, he’s got one final season to prove he deserves that second contract. What happens next for Dell is anyone’s guess, but you know Houston fans are gonna be watching every move.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Battle Red Blog.
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